Best 11 Tools for Automating Recruitment and Candidate Tracking
Applicant tracking systems (ATS) have become essential for organizations trying to stay competitive in today’s hiring landscape. They help streamline every part of the recruitment process—from posting jobs to managing interviews and making offers. With many platforms now offering AI, text messaging, referral tools, and integrations with other HR systems, companies can automate routine tasks and focus more on hiring the right people.
What Are Recruitment Automation and Candidate Tracking?
Recruitment automation refers to the use of software tools that reduce or eliminate repetitive hiring tasks, such as posting jobs, screening resumes, scheduling interviews, and following up with candidates. These tools are designed to save time, minimize errors, and ensure that nothing falls through the cracks. By automating these steps, recruiters can focus more on strategy, candidate experience, and hiring quality.
Candidate tracking, a core part of recruitment automation, involves keeping detailed records of each applicant’s journey through the hiring process. This includes storing resumes, recording interview feedback, managing communications, and updating candidate statuses—all in one place. Together, recruitment automation and candidate tracking make it easier to hire at scale while keeping the process organized and fair.
Below are 11 standout ATS platforms worth considering in 2025.
1. SenseHR
SenseHR is a flexible and user-friendly solution built to support every stage of the hiring journey. From job posting to onboarding, it simplifies the experience for both HR teams and candidates. As a cloud-based platform, SenseHR software for UK businesses is especially appealing to organizations looking to stay compliant, automate routine tasks, and manage employees with one system for HR. Its clean interface and practical tools make it a strong option for small and mid-sized teams wanting to streamline recruitment without overwhelming complexity.
2. Avature
Originally focused on engaging passive talent, Avature has evolved into a highly customizable platform that supports automated hiring workflows, recruiting event management, and even contingent workforce planning. Its flexibility makes it ideal for companies with complex recruitment strategies that need tailored configurations.
3. Breezy
Breezy combines a clean interface with practical tools like email and text-based candidate communication. It also supports inclusive hiring practices by integrating with DEI job boards and offering anonymized application options. These features make it a good fit for teams prioritizing collaboration and fair candidate evaluation.
4. ClearCompany
ClearCompany goes beyond applicant tracking with built-in modules for onboarding, performance, and engagement. Features like multi-language support, branded offer letters, and AI-assisted content creation allow teams to create a more polished, cohesive hiring experience across locations and departments.
5. Greenhouse
Greenhouse is widely recognized for its structured approach to hiring. It offers interview scorecards, powerful integrations, and real-time analytics, helping teams stay consistent and data-driven throughout the recruitment process. Its open API and mobile access further improve usability for fast-paced teams.
6. JazzHR
JazzHR is a favorite among small and mid-sized businesses for its affordability and robust feature set. With unlimited job postings, built-in evaluation tools, and text-based application options, it helps recruiters efficiently manage high volumes of applicants without additional costs.
7. Jobvite
Jobvite blends traditional ATS features with CRM, onboarding, and AI-based candidate rediscovery. Its ability to rank previous applicants, automate messaging, and offer recruiter training through Jobvite Academy makes it a comprehensive solution for teams seeking both functionality and professional development.
8. Lever
Lever merges ATS and CRM capabilities, helping recruiters build long-term relationships with potential candidates. Its support for DEI initiatives, combined with detailed analytics and seamless HRIS integrations, makes it an excellent tool for forward-thinking hiring teams.
9. Manatal
Manatal leverages AI to create detailed candidate profiles using social media and public data, then recommends the best-fit candidates. Its cross-device accessibility and transparent uptime reporting appeal to teams who value usability and system reliability.
10. SeekOut
SeekOut specializes in sourcing passive candidates and supporting internal mobility. With built-in diversity tracking and powerful AI matching tools, it helps companies strengthen both external recruiting and internal development programs.
11. SmartRecruiters
SmartRecruiters covers the full talent acquisition cycle—from marketing roles to chatbot-powered candidate engagement. Features like resume screening, interview scorecards, and a centralized inbox for communication help teams manage large pipelines with ease and clarity.
Final Thoughts
Today’s recruiting demands speed, consistency, and a positive candidate experience—something that’s nearly impossible to deliver without the help of technology. Applicant tracking systems are designed to remove friction, reduce manual work, and keep hiring teams aligned from start to finish.
Whether you’re looking for AI-driven candidate matching, customizable workflows, or a platform built around inclusive hiring, the systems listed above offer a variety of strengths to match different organizational needs. The right ATS can make hiring easier—not just for recruiters, but for everyone involved in the process.